Now you can be guided and nourished each day of Lent not only by giving up something but rather by reading these wonderful daily reflections followed by action thoughts. We hope these reflections can help each of us to begin again during the days of Lent, as we make our way “up to Jerusalem” to be with the Lord as He suffers, dies and rises again- bringing us to new life.
It’s time to break out the alleluias! Unlike the gospel reading of the great vigil today’s reading does not show us an encounter with the risen Lord. We see, instead, the beginnings of belief based on the evidence of the empty tomb and the discarded and carefully folded burial cloths. The first to discover the open tomb, Mary of Magdalaruns to summon Peter and the disciple whom Jesus loved. Peter is the first to enter into the emptiness. “Then the other disciple also went in, the one who had arrived at the tomb first, and he saw and believed. For they did not yet understand the Scripture that he had to rise from the dead” (Jn. 20:8-9). Although we have firm faith that Jesus is risen and we understand scripture and our lives in light of our faith, God’s ways remain beyond our understanding. Today begins a great octave of prayer, marveling at Jesus’ victory over death, reading accounts of his appearances to some of his followers, and basking in the joy and gift of peace that comes from God. I am grateful for all of you who have made these reflections and will continue to pray for you and your intentions during this octave. I invite you to remember in your prayers this week: Pope Francis, the Franciscans who made these reflections possible, all who have been received into the church this Easter and all of our online community who have joined in these reflections. Christ is risen! Happy Easter!
Holy Saturday begins and ends on very different notes. We begin the day with tabernacles empty, the sanctuary lamp dark, holy water fonts dry, churches and chapels empty and quiet except for the occasional silent bustle of cleaners and decorators preparing for the great vigil. As a young nun, I had thought the day unbearably lonely and long. I’ve come to think of it as a day pregnant with possibility of Easter’s promise to make all things new. It is a little like the first Sabbath when after the work of creation, God rested, watching all creation learn how to be. This is a waiting day, a day both too long and too short for those who will come into the church tonight. Pray for them these last hours before they come into full communion with us. Today is also a waiting day for Jesus. In those first appearances and after his resurrection, Jesus must have delighted in the surprise, the welcome, the joy with which his friends greeted him once he wished them peace and they realized he was alive. Though in heaven, Jesus still waits for us to be renewed and to follow the direction of the Holy Spirit, his abiding gift to us. Conclude today’s prayer by asking Jesus what his hopes are for you, for the people you care about, for your neighborhood, for our church and for our world.
We know the story of today’s gospel; we have seen the events in paintings and movies, we have traced the events whilepraying the Stations of the Cross, but we remain shocked and awed by Jesus unfailing love and forgiveness. Again we share the details, as shocking as they were the first time. “After this, aware that everything was now finished, in order that the Scripture might be fulfilled, Jesus said, ‘I thirst.’ There was a vessel filled with common wine. So they put a sponge soaked in wine on a sprig of hyssop and put it up to his mouth. When Jesus had taken the wine, he said, ‘It is finished.’And bowing his head, he handed over the spirit” (Jn. 19:28-30). Once again we hear of Jesus’ thirst. A few weeks ago we heard Jesus ask the Samaritan woman for a drink, hoping that in the encounter she would be open to receive Jesus’ gift of living water, the gift of grace and love he continues to offer us. Of course today’s prayer calls us to witness Jesus’ great act of love. As we end our prayer recalling how Jesus told the Father and anyone in hearing distance that his earthly ministry is finished, let us be heartened, encouraged and humbled, knowing that discipleship calls us to continue Jesus’ lovingmission of peace, justice and mercy.
“During supper, fully aware that the Father had put everything into his power and that he had come from God and was returning to God, Jesus rose from supper and took off his outer garments.
He took a towel and tied it around his waist. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and dry them with the towel around his waist” (Jn. 13:3-5). After all this time with his apostles, Jesus still surprises them, still surprises many of us after all our years of following him. Aware of his full powers, Jesus takes on the dress and duties of a house servant. The one thing Jesus in all his power cannot and will not do is force himself or his ways on us. Standingbefore a bewildered Peter who calls him Master and initially refuses the unseemly service, Jesus explains that to be a follower is to accept his love as it is offered. Peter yields and welcomes Jesus’ gesture. Finishing his service, Jesus tells his friends that his active service was to be a model for their lives. Although we won’t read the account of the last Passover meal that Jesus shared with his friends, we know they celebrated God’s gift of covenanted love throughout history. Spend some time remembering the fear, loneliness and sorrow Jesus experienced as he prayed in the garden, expressing once again his obedience to the Father as his companions slept. Concluding her prayer by remembering one time when you experience God’s love. It might have been in the time of prayer, and perhaps receiving Eucharist, or it might have been a time you received Jesus loving service to another person.
Today is often referred to as Spy Wednesday because we hear Jesus tell Judas that he knows his intentions to betray him.For today’s prayer, we will use part of today’s responsorial psalm, Psalm 69. The prayer expresses deep sorrow: “I looked for sympathy, but there was none;
for consolers, not one could I find. Rather they put gall in my food, and in my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink” (Ps. 69:21-22 ) Asserting that “Lament is praise,” the Christian singer-songwriter Michael Card observed that psalms often begin in sorrow, then turn to hope and trust in God who is always faithful. Not part of today’s liturgy, the turn begins with a statement of personal sorrow followed by a petition: “But here I am miserable and in pain; let your saving help protect me, God, (Ps. 69:30). The psalm response concludes with personal praise and a call and promise of consolation for allwho turn to God. “I will praise the name of God in song, and I will glorify him with thanksgiving: “See, you lowly ones, and be glad; you who seek God, may your hearts revive! For the LORD hears the poor, and his own who are in bonds he spurns not” (Ps. 69:31, 33-35). For today’s pray, pray your own version of a psalm: bring to God some lament, a sorrow or concern, The concern can be personal, that of a friend or family member or a larger concern of the country or the world. Lay your sorrow or worry out before God. Conclude your prayer Conclude your prayer with a but or yet statement of what God can do or what you trust God to do, You may find it helpful to write out your psalm, but keep your focus on your concerns and God’s constancy, not on the style of your words.
In today’s gospel, Jesus is at once cast down and confident. Although his disciples do not understand, Jesus speaks more clearly than ever of what’s to come. Jesus announces that he will be betrayed and sends Judas on his way. He then proclaims, “Now is the Son of Man glorified, and God is glorified in him. If God is glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself, and he will glorify him at once” (Jn.13:31-32). In this act of love God’s glory will show itself full force, healing and transfiguring us. On Thursday and Friday, we will look on Jesus as the Man of Sorrows, but for today’s reflection, consider how much God loves you and how God is glorified in you. Before the day is over, act out that glory. Say a prayer for someone, send a text or e-mail, visit your neighbor and listen again listen once again to their favorite story Call your representative, urging them to work for affordable housing or some other cause hat the Holy Spirit has drawn you to.
In today’s gospel, Martha, Mary and Lazarus, whom Jesus raised from the dead, are holding a dinner party for Jesus. Maryanoints the feet of Jesus with perfumed oil and dries them with her hair. When Judas, for his own greedy interests, objects to the apparent waste of money, Jesus replies “Leave her alone. Let her keep this for the day of my burial” (Jn. 12:7 ). No doubt when Jesus’ body is taken down from the cross and buried quickly without the usual anointing, this memory will comfort Jesus’ followers, but Jesus himself must have taken comfort in Mary’s act of service and friendship. As followers of Christ, we must be ready to serve but we must also be gracious and grateful receivers. The son of God modeled this humble acceptance of care at the Incarnation, becoming one with us as a helpless infant. This week we will see Jesuseating the Passover with his friends, asking some of them to pray with him in these last difficult moments of his earthly ministry, so for today’s reflection, let’s focus on our experience as recipients of gifts. Consider both your daily interactions and reasons for gratitude as well as any special occasion that comes to mind. Age, illness or disability, natural disasters or loss of employment can require us to receive care; whether temporary or permanent, this dependence can make us feel that it is, indeed, far better to give than to receive. However, if we recall a time when we helped someone else, we will remember that the one who gives and the one who receives are both blessed. In giving, in enjoying the company of his friends, And knowing the love and support of his Father, Christ remains our model.
What a mix of emotions and scenes our Palm Sunday liturgy holds! When I was a child, Palm Sunday Mass was followed by a big breakfast at my aunt’s diner and a blessing prayer at home. Gathered before a crucifix, beginning with my father,each of us would touch the others’ shoulders with our blessed palms and say, “May you faithfully follow Jesus to Calvary and beyond.” The word beyond hinted of Easter and all the joy and feasting that would come, but for today’s reflection, I suggest we look beyond Jesus’ close followers and consider the far reach of God’s grace to all people in all times. As Jesus prepares to celebrate one last Passover, we are grateful for our inheritance from our elder brothers and sisters in faithwho are celebrating Passover while we mark Holy Week. We pray for their joyful celebration, for an end to anti-Semitism and for a resolution of the conflict in the Middle East, for peace and healing for all involved. Remembering Simon of Cyrene, a foreigner, who was pressed into carrying Jesus’ cross, we pray that those who feel alone in their struggles find comfort in God and assistance from their neighbors. Jesus advised the mourning women to be concerned for their children, so let’s pray for families, whether they are strong or struggling. Finally, we pray for peace and healing in the world that God so loves.
Tensions are running high. Jesus’ followers have swelled in number since he raised Lazarus from the dead; consequently, the opposition has grown in intensity. The desire of some officials to arrest and execute Jesus is widely known. Arriving in Jerusalem ahead of the Passover celebration, some people wonder whether Jesus will dare to join the observance. No longer traveling in public, Jesus and his followers travel to Ephraim. It is a time of waiting. Imagine what that waiting time was like for Jesus. The hour to complete his mission was, he knew, drawing near. Though willing to lay down his life, Jesus must have been anxious about what was to come. No doubt, he took some comfort in the presence of his friends and, in turn, he probably tried to strengthen them for what was to come. For us today is a day of transition and waiting. Until now we have focused on reflecting on our own lives and following Jesus more closely. During Holy Week all our attention is on Jesus, his love his courage, his sorrow, his prayers for his disciples, his last words and service to his followers. Of course, we also wait to celebrate Easter, confident in our faith that the life of Jesus continues in us, through us and with us. In prayer, consider what Jesus is waiting and hoping for in your ongoing response to his call and in our church and world.
With so little time remaining in his earthly, ministry, Jesus’ message becomes more direct and more urgent. “Even if you do not believe me, believe the works, so that you may realize and understand
that the Father is in me and I am in the Father” (Jn.10:38 ). As the narrative continues, we learn that many came to believe in Jesus because “everything John said about this man was true” (Jn. 10:41). Though few of us are called to be preachers, we are all called to be witnesses to the good news of Christ through our prayer, our treatment of others, the way we manage our daily lives, even if we do not leave our residence very often. Next week as we focus on Jesus’ passion, death and resurrection, we will see how he chooses his path, united to the Father and focused on his saving mission. We will also see how he looks to his friends and prays to his Father. Once again, give thanks to God for your baptismal call to be recipient of and witness to God’s love. Holidays and holydays are sometimes difficult for those who are alone, so pray for those who may be struggling with their own sorrows. And if you know someone who is feeling loss, reach out to them. Finally, say a prayer for all who have been joining in these daily prayers. Whether we are enduring loss or sadness or experiencing contentment or joy, we are all one in Christ.
God’s loving view is longer and wider than our wildest imaginings. No wonder Jesus’ audience is confused when he claims, “Before Abraham came to be, I AM” (Jn. 8:58). A Franciscan scholar during the Middle Ages, John Duns Scotus took God’s long view into account, claiming the Incarnation was part of God’s creative design before forming the world and all its creatures. In other words, Jesus redeemed us from our sins, but the primary reason for the Incarnation was God’s love and desire to be close to us, not human failure. Give thanks for all the ways God’s love is made visible in our world and for those who have yet to come to know our loving God. Let us also remember in prayer the Franciscans who bring us together in these daily reflections and all Franciscans and their ministries and partners in ministry.
Jesus said to those Jews who believed in him, “If you remain in my word, you will truly be my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (Jn. 8:31). As a young girl, this promise gave me no comfort since I was sure the truth would consist of a list of my failings. As an old woman approaching one more Holy Week, I’m aware of my still flailing Lenten resolution to give up complaining, but I’ve come to understand that remaining in Christ’s word means that Jesus accompanies me in my success or lack thereof, in illness or health, in sadness or joy. This is the freeing truth of our lives in Christ. Spend some time with Jesus, remembering a few key moments of your life. Jesus was with you at all those times so be sure to take into consideration Jesus’ memory of the situation. Conclude by asking God to make you more aware of Christ’s presence in your daily life and the lives of those around you.
The power of God’s love extends from age to age. In the gospel, Jesus speaks of his upcoming crucifixion: “When you lift up the Son of Man, then you will realize that I AM, and that I do nothing on my own, but I say only what the Father taught me” (Jn. 8:28). Jesus applies to himself the sacred name God revealed to Moses: I AM. Like the bronze serpent in the first reading, the crucified Jesus will be a source of healing. In both cases, the instruments of healing are shocking: the bronze serpent, a graven image prohibited by religious law but proscribed by God so that those bitten by poisonous snakes might look at the image and be healed. Similarly, crucifixion was considered so shameful a punishment that the civil law protected Roman citizens from this form of execution. God has a way of turning things around. Drawing on the gospels or other biblical accounts, the lives of the saints or your personal experience, reflect on one example of God turning things around. What does that experience reveal about God? Why does that particular story appeal to you?
Faced with mounting opposition, Jesus continues his mission, proclaiming, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life ” (Jn. 8:12) Challenged that he cannot testify on his own behalf, Jesus once again maintains that the Father testifies with him. How comforting the Father’s presence must have been to Jesus! How comforting it is for us to have Jesus as our light and the Lord as our shepherd, as Psalm 23 reminds us. Several times throughout the day or evening, bring to mind a word or phrase that reminds you of God’s presence. It might be Jesus or Lord or Shepherd or a phrase like Jesus saves; Jesus, be with me; Lord, free me. You might use the same word or phrase or vary it. At the end of the day think about the word or phrase that most moves you. What does that phrase say about your relationship with God? Give thanks for any blessings received. Sometimes called the practice of the presence of God, these short prayer moments can grace an ordinary day or bring calm to chaos.
Have you ever had a well constructed argument fail because the other person refused to be engaged? A simple shrug or mere silence gave you no reason to lay out your evidence. In today’s gospel Jesus takes a similar strategy, refusing to judge either the woman accused of adultery or the law that would sentence her to death by stoning. Silently scribbling in the sand, Jesus makes no answer. He then counters with his own challenge, inviting anyone who is sinless to cast the first stone. After the others leave, Jesus offers no condemnation, exacts no punishment. He simply sends the woman on her way after telling her not to sin again. How often scripture has reminded us that the sacrifice our desires is that of a humble contrite heart. Giving thanks to God for the times you have received God’s mercy, pray that those who feel they cannot be forgiven that they will come to know God’s love and forgiveness. And pray for those who offer forgiveness, whether in personal relationships or in a professional setting like priests in the sacrament of Reconciliation or counselors.
Who will risk arresting Jesus and rousing the anger of the growing crowd of his supporters? The arguments go on. He speaks well, but no prophet can come from Galilee. The learned scholars have not become followers of Jesus; only the uneducated masses pin their hopes on this Jesus, or so some say. Having become a follower of Jesus in secret, Nicodemus a Pharisee and member of the Sanhedrin, asserts that the law requires someone to be tried before he is condemned. Anticipating the events of Jesus’ arrest and all that follows we cringe at this discussion, but we might ask ourselves if we have not sometimes dismissed others out of hand because of the way they look or speak. And each of us probably has etched in our consciousness the voice of at least one person who was sure we couldn’t accomplish what we were trying to do. Jesus knows firsthand what it means to be judged so ask Jesus to guide your reflection to identify and eliminate grudges and judgments you may hold against another person or group of people. Next, ask Jesus to heal you of others’ judgments that have limited you and say a prayer of blessing and forgiveness for those who have hurt you.
Despite death threats, Jesus would not miss the feast of tabernacles, would not fail to make the pilgrimage to Jerusalem, commemorating God’s care for the Israelites’ encampments as they moved through the desert on their way to freedom. Unlike his followers, Jesus had traveled to Jerusalem in secret but he appeared openly at the feast, teaching in the temple. The crowd speculate why Jesus has not been arrested, but our reading ends with the simple statement that Jesus’ hour had not yet come. Spend some time today praying for those who wait, beginning with those waiting to receive the Easter sacraments. Pray that the children who wait for Easter candy enjoy the love of family and friends and that adults may, as Jesus directed, become as trusting and open as little children. Is there anything you are waiting for? Is there anything Jesus would have you do, think, say, change? Trust the Holy Spirit who guides our prayers to stir your heart.
As Jesus moves closer to the end of his earthly ministry, he continues to speak of his relationship with the Father. He points to the witness of John the Baptist and of Moses as supporting his claims and notes: “I cannot do anything on my own; I judge as I hear, and my judgment is just, because I do not seek my own will but the will of the one who sent me” (Jn. 5:30). We are all sustained by our relationships and our sense of purpose. Consider your Christian vocation. What has sustained you? What has surprised you? What changes in your relationships and roles have occurred over the years? Give thanks for what has been and express your hope for and openness to what will be.
Although we don’t learn the accusation or question that caused Jesus’ response in today’s gospel, we hear his declaration: “My Father is at work until now, so I am at work” (Jn. 5: 17). Curing on the Sabbath, calling himself the Father’s son and so making himself equal to God, gaining in popularity, Jesus’ assertions of authority and acts of compassion threatened the status quo. Jesus gives his followers a hint of the resurrection, a phrase that they might remember in the difficult, painful; days to come: “For the Father loves his Son and shows him everything that he himself does, and he will show him greater works than these, so that you may be amazed” (Jn. 5:20). How have you experienced God’s Amazing Grace? Consider the joyous mysteries of your life as well as the troubled times that God companioned you through
It was said that an angel would stir or, as earlier translations say, would “trouble the waters” of the pool of Bethesda, causing them to have curative powers. A crippled man tells Jesus he can’t make it to the water in time to be healed because he has no one to help him. Jesus heals him instantly, saying: “Rise, take up your mat, and walk”(Jn. 5:8). Cured, the man follows Jesus’ directions. This story inspired the hymn “God’s Gonna’ Trouble the Waters.” Sung frequently during the Civil Rights marches, the hymn looked forward to God inspiring minds and hearts to change society. The late Civil Rights hero, Representative John Lewis used to urge people to engage in “good trouble, necessary trouble.” What need of your local community, our nation, or our world is closest to your heart? Pray for that intention and engage in some “good trouble,” if not today, then sometime this week. Volunteer for a local cause, participate in recycling and composting efforts, email or phone a local or state official and, as we always do, bring that concern to God in prayer.
Reflection
Love pushes us beyond our normal limits. A royal official travels from Capernaum to Galilee to ask Jesus to come to his home and heal his dying son. As much to the crowd as to the official, Jesus laments that people require signs to believe in him and his teachings. Then love responds to love: Jesus sends the official home, telling him his son has been healed. Signs remain important in supporting our faith. Jesus is, as Pope Francis has said, “the human face of God’s mercy.” We see Jesus in in scripture, in sacraments and in community and we are called to be signs of Jesus’ continuing presence in our midst. Giving thanks to God for the power of the Spirit working within you, recall some ways you have shared God’s mercy compassion, justice or love. Consider small courtesies or acts of kindness: a few minutes of patient listening to an old story, choosing silence rather than anger when your feelings were hurt, a sympathetic word or nod to a parent whose infant will not stop crying. We all know the power of these graced encounters. Pray to be the blessing your neighbor needs.
Proclaimed at liturgies with those preparing for the Easter sacraments, the gospel (Jn. 9:1-41) tells of Jesus and his disciples coming upon a blind man on the side of the road. After telling his companions that he is the light of the world, Jesus applies to the blind man’s eyes the clay he mixed from the earth and his spit and direct the man to wash in the pool of Siloam. Cured, the man returns and is questioned by people from whom he used to beg alms and by various authorities. It was unheard of that someone born blind could be cured, but the man spoke the truth as he knew it: someone named Jesus cured him. Later Jesus revealed himself to be the son of man and the formerly blind man worshiped him. We are all seekers; we all have blind spots. Let’s pray for those coming into full communion with our church at the Easter vigil. In addition, take some time to notice and give thanks for what God is doing in our world– a news story of someone working with the poor, the laughter of children’s play, a friend’s gift of soup, the beauty of the sunset or of a favorite painting. Signs of God abound; the invitation asks us to look and see!
It takes a lifetime of practice to grow in right relationship with God. our neighbor and ourselves. As children, many of us probably explained to our parents that a glass of water just fell off the table. Later, when we wanted to do well in school, but not seem like a showoff, we might have told our classmates we got lucky and studied the right pages the night before the test. In the story Jesus tells, we see two adults with very different prayer practices and self-concepts. The pharisee takes his place in the temple and, naming his good deeds, thanks God that he is superior to everyone else, including the tax collector who stands at a distance, repenting of his sins and asking for God’s mercy. Jesus observes that of the two men, only the tax collector goes home justified, “for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted” (Lk. 18:14). Humility requires us to acknowledge the truth about ourselves, our strengths and our failings and acknowledging that God has empowered us to use our gifts and will help us to become more faithful and loving. Reflect on how you are living Christ’s call to follow him; include strengths and weaknesses. Next, ask Christ how he sees you. You might begin this second step, by focusing on the title or role that comes to mind as you pray today. Brother, Physician, Good Shepherd, Way, Truth, Life, Friend, Lord, Yoked Companion… The relational titles suggest how Jesus sees us and meets our needs. Conclude your prayer by giving thanks for Christ’s call and ongoing presence in your life.
When a scribe asks Jesus to name the first commandment, Jesus names the two great commandments, the first, the full-hearted love of God and he adds the second, the love of neighbor. Addressing Jesus as teacher, the scribe affirms what Jesus said and adds that the love of God and of neighbor “is worth more than all burnt offerings and sacrifice.” (Mk. 12:33 ) . Jesus tells the scribe, “You are not far from the Kingdom of God” (Mk. 12:34 ). While the relationship between the scribes and Jesus is sometimes contentious here the scribe and Jesus are united in faith. Let’s pray for all people of faith and people seeking faith. In particular, let us pray for People of the Book: Jews, Christians and Muslims. We share a spiritual heritage and this year the dates of some of our religious observances will overlap. The month-long observance of Ramadan, a time of fasting, prayer and charity, will end tomorrow. Passover will begin April 12th and conclude after sundown on April 20th, Easter Sunday. Let us pray that we all grow in our faith, united by the love of our one God and our commitment to serve one another.
In today’s gospel, a healing miracle rouses fear in the onlookers when Jesus drives out a demon who had rendered a man mute. Awed by the man’s transformation, some wonder if Jesus has been empowered by a more powerful demon than the one he expelled. Jesus counters: “Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste and house will fall against house” (Lk. 11:17). He continues, “… if it is by the finger of God that I drive out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you” (Lk. 11:20). During Lent, we remember the Kingdom of God has come and that we are called to carry on Jesus’ ministry. Months ago, those preparing for the Easter Sacraments were welcomed into the process by their sponsors signing them with the sign of the cross on their forehead, ears, eyes, mouth, hands, shoulders, heart and feet. This is a symbolic first step in the total commitment they will make to Christ at the Easter vigil. Consider how you are using the gifts and abilities God has given you. You might pay special attention to how you use your voice when speaking to or about others, when making a point, when singing in church. Even if you were once told you couldn’t sing, join in the hymns next Sunday.
Discover your ancestors; know where you came from and learn more about who you are. These are the promises of many DNA-based kits. Today’s readings remind us of our spiritual heritage. In the first reading, Moses exhorts the people to “be earnestly on your guard not to forget the things which your own eyes have seen, nor let them slip from your memory as long as you live, but teach them to your children and to your children’s children” (Dt. 4:9). Emphasizing the continuity of God’s loving care, Jesus warns his followers: “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill” (Mt. 5:17). While we all share this great family legacy of God’s action throughout history, each of us has a particular story or image of God or Jesus. This might be an image from a bible story, the way God was presented to us in class or church, an image from art or hymn. How has that image shaped your experience of God? Your feelings about yourself? About other people? About nature? Sometimes our vision of God can be so narrow that we rule out the possibilities God sees for us and in us.
Nearly halfway through Lent, today’s solemnity of the Annunciation can seem out of sync, but creation, the incarnation and all that follows flow from God’s singular love. After telling Mary that she would become pregnant by the power of the Holy Spirit and that her aged cousin Elizabeth was in the sixth month of pregnancy, the angel states: “nothing will be impossible for God” (Lk. 1:37). The barrage of daily news events or the complications of our lives can be overwhelming. In proclaiming the jubilee year of hope, Pope Francis reminds us that the “interplay of hope and patience makes us see clearly that the Christian life is a journey calling for moments of greater intensity to encourage and sustain hope as the constant companion that guides our steps towards the goal of our encounter with the Lord Jesus.” In that spirit of patience and hope, pray for one complicated personal or world situation and give God thanks for one sign of hope—perhaps, your own life breath or the knowledge that many people are joining us in our Lenten prayer. Nothing will be impossible for God!
Today’s readings teach us to be attentive to wisdom and, as a friend of mine says, to acknowledge that God is God and we are not God. In the first reading, an Israeli girl, servant to the wife of the army general Naaman, suggests the prophet Elisha might cure Naaman’s leprosy. When Naaman travels to Elisha’s house, he is greeted not by the prophet but by a message with the prophet’s instructions to plunge into the river Jordan seven times. Naaman is outraged; he describes the instant cure he had imagined and argues that the waters of Jordan are no better than the waters of his homeland. Naaman’s servants intervene, reasoning that if he had been given an extraordinarily difficult task, he would have complied. Obeying Elisha’s directions, Naaman is cured. Returning to Elisha, he proclaims, “Now I know that there is no God in all the earth, except in Israel” (2 Kgs. 5:15). Like Naaman, we often have great expectations of how God will bring about the healing, peace and justice God wishes for us, but, contrary to our imaginings, God often works in quieter ways, through scripture, through nature, through our prayer or through the words of another person. Recall and give thanks for one person whose wise words or steadying presence have been a blessing for you.
In the encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman (John 5:4-42) God’s love stretches us beyond our cultural limitations and expectations, surprises and fulfills us. Proclaimed at liturgies where the congregation will pray for those preparing to receive the Easter sacraments, this gospel reveals the promise of the living water of baptism. Unthinkable, that Jesus would ask a Samaritan woman for a drink or engage her in conversation, but after Jesus tells her the truth of her life and speaks of a time when people will worship God in spirit and truth. Returning with food, the disciples are shocked to see Jesus speaking with the Samaritan woman though they do not question him; instead they urge Jesus to eat. Though confusing to his followers, Jesus response is a complete love story: “My food is to do the will of the one who sent me and to finish his work” (Jn. 4:34). The thirst that Jesus expresses under the noonday sun is part of that same thirst we will hear gasped more forcefully, more painfully from the cross. Both express God’s impassioned longing and desire for us to open ourselves to receive God’s love, to be united with God and one another. This is the desire that inspired creation, the incarnation and the life, passion, death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus. Spend some time listening to Jesus telling you how and why you are loved. Is there anything keeping you from accepting and trusting that love? If there is something in your past, acknowledge it as past and recognize that Jesus is here with you now, speaking words of forgiveness and mercy. Is God calling you to use your voice, your presence, your previously underused talent in a new way? Trust the Spirit’s assistance. You might want to participate in your parish’s seasonal penance services, lectures or other devotions that will support your growth.
Most often the forgiving father and the brash younger son command our attention in this parable of the prodigal son , but let’s consider the older brother, consumed by self-righteousness, sibling rivalry, anger and envy (LK15:11-32). Given the father’s generosity, we can suspect that the son never asked his father to throw a party for him and his friends. Many people say it’s easier to pray when there’s a pressing need or they feel like they’re in trouble, but in the best and worst of times, God remains in covenanted relationship with us. As the words of an old hymn suggests, “Standing on the Promises of God” can deepen our awareness of God’s presence in our daily lives. Think of the many ways God has related to you over the course of your lifetime and ask God to deepen your relationship.
Today is about transformations. One day into spring, we already see changes in nature, gradual changes that require our patient waiting and watching. Quoting Isaiah, Jesus hints at what is to become of him: “The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; by the Lord has this been done, and it is wonderful in our eyes” (Mt. 21:42). How often we are surprised by God! God’s timing, God’s selection of leaders and workers, God’s judgment often startles us. We hear this passage mindful of the suffering Jesus will endure, but heartened by the coming resurrection. Pray today for two transformations: one personal, focusing on your life or someone you know; the second. focusing on some conflict or disaster in the news. Pray for all people involved that they and their circumstances might be transformed.
We hear the familiar story of Lazarus, a poor man, covered with sores, who lay outside the rich man’s house. Enjoying his good life, the rich man never even gave the poor man leftovers from his table. When death came, the poor man rested beside Abraham while the rich man suffered torment of flames. The rich man first asks Abraham to allow Lazarus to bring him some water to cool his tongue; when that is refused, he asks that Lazarus go to warn his brothers so that they might not receive the same punishment. That too is refused, since the law of Moses required caring for others. In his Lenten message, Pope Francis suggests today’s prayer practice: “It would be a good Lenten exercise for us to compare our daily life with that of some migrant or foreigner, to learn how to sympathize with their experiences and in this way discover what God is asking of us so that we can better advance on our journey to the house of the Father. This would be a good ‘examination of conscience’ for all of us wayfarers.”
As my mother routinely told me, raising a child includes many challenges. Though vastly different from other parents’ worries, St. Joseph must have faced many challenges as foster father of Jesus. Today’s feast provides us with a choice of two gospel readings: the dream directing Joseph to marry Mary and the finding of Jesus in the temple. When Mary tells Jesus how worried she and Joseph had been, Jesus answers with a question: “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house? (Lk. 2:49). As we all know, Jesus returns to the family home until it is time for his public ministry, but I find myself thinking about Jesus’ question. How often he will say to his followers, “Do you not know…?” What is it Jesus would have you and me know? That God created us and believes we are good? That God loves us unconditionally? That Jesus desires us to be as close to him as he is to the Father? That Jesus’ strength works with and through our weakness? Through prayer, scripture, formal lessons, we know these truths, but let’s spend time with Jesus today, asking him to increase our trust and stir our heart response to one aspect of the relationship we share.
Naming Sodom and Gomorrah, cities known for their sinful ways, the prophet Isaiah utters a general call to conversion and God’s forgiveness: “Wash yourselves clean! Put away your misdeeds from before my eyes; cease doing evil; learn to do good. Make justice your aim: redress the wronged, hear the orphan’s plea, defend the widow” (Is. 1:16-17). The prophet goes on to reassure the crowd that in pursuing justice, in helping others, we receive God’s forgiveness. Think about one time you opposed injustice. It might have been settling a family disagreement, speaking at a town hall gathering or settling a dispute on a playground. What roused your attention? What gave you courage to act? Reminding us that conversion is our life-long call, Pope Francis’ Lenten message invites us to ask ourselves: “Am I really on a journey, or am I standing still, not moving, either immobilized by fear and hopelessness or reluctant to move out of my comfort zone?” Perform one act of justice today. Recycle, contact your local representative about housing, greet the delivery person with a tip and a smile. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide the small efforts that can change you and the world we share.
Is God ever too much for you? How do you react when you experience the overwhelming power of Jesus’ love and generosity? In the gospel text for the feast of St Patrick, Peter is overwhelmed by the power of Jesus’ love and generosity (Lk. 5:1-11). After a long and unsuccessful night of fishing, Peter and his friends are washing their nets. Jesus comes along and asks Peter if he could use his boat to teach the crowd who had gathered. Peter complies, and, when Jesus finishes teaching, Jesus tells Peter to go out farther into the water and put down his net. Peter explains that the fish were not biting, but there is something about Jesus, the new itinerant preacher who is already attracting attention, that makes Peter comply. As his net is tearing from the weight of the catch, Peter calls out to his friends to bring their boat, but the haul is so great that both boats are close to sinking. Peter kneels before Jesus, pleading “Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man” (Lk. 5:8). Jesus’ response to Simon is simple and compelling: “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men”(Lk. 5:10). When the boats pull ashore, Peter, James and John leave everything to follow Jesus. As we move through Lent we can become preoccupied with our own failings and pettiness in light of God’s gift of Jesus’ incarnation, life, passion, death and resurrection, but Jesus invites us to move beyond fear and follow him. Beginning with the gift of life itself, consider all the gifts God has given you and, offering it as a sacrifice of praise to God, use one of those gifts for another person. Your gesture can be small, a kind word in a text, a sincere compliment, a hand extended to hold a door. A small gesture can be a double blessing, gracing the giver and the receiver.
The account of the Transfiguration gives us a mountaintop moment, a glimpse of the resurrection and how it fulfills God’s covenant. The day had started out with Jesus wanting to spend some time in prayer. He brought along his close friends, Peter, James and John, who fell asleep. Waking up, they saw Jesus, transformed in light and glory, speaking with Moses and Elijah. Impulsive as ever, Peter suggests building three tents for Jesus, Moses and Elijah, but then the disciples are enveloped by a cloud and find themselves alone with Jesus. A voice from the cloud proclaims: “This is my chosen Son; listen to him” (Lk. 9:35). The story ends by noting that the disciples did not speak about this experience. Mountaintop moments are like that; they leave us awed, almost speechless, but they are transformative. Recall one mountaintop moment in your life. It might have been a special date, landing a part in the school play, making a game-changing basketball shot. Enjoy the memory and say a prayer of gratitude for the moment and the people in it. Peak experiences are by definition rare gifts, but if we let ourselves slow down and look around we may be caught up in moments of awe, wonder and beauty. Ask God to point the way.
Like many of the readings of this week today’s gospel focuses on loving others, including one’s enemies and praying for those who persecute you. Jesus urges us to be like the Father, who showers the gifts of rain and sun on the just and the unjust. with rain and sun. Jesus finishes his teaching with what seems to be an impossible goal, to be “perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Mt.5:48). We will not be freed from the lifelong process of correcting our mistakes but by praying for the good of those we may fear, dislike or not understand, we may, in the words of Pope Francis, “recognize the immense goodness present in our world, lest we be tempted to think ourselves overwhelmed by evil and violence” (Declaration of the Jubilee Year of Hope). Let your prayer be expansive today. Pray for one person with whom you’ve had a difficult interaction and pray for the good of all people involved in one of today’s news stories, whether it’s an armed conflict, a crime or a court case.
In today’s gospel Jesus urges us to examine not just our actions but our attitudes. Stating the obvious, that anyone who kills his brother will be judged, Jesus declares that anyone who is angry with his brother or demeans another person by calling them a fool is also liable to judgment. Jesus goes on to say if you are harboring anger or negative thoughts and attitudes towards someone and you are about to offer a sacrifice to God, leave your sacrifice at the altar until you have reconciled with the person you’ve hurt. When Jesus speaks of being angry with one’s brother, he doesn’t mean just a blood relative; he means anyone, everyone, a personal acquaintance or a public figure. Left to my own devices, I am more likely to convince myself of my righteousness than to investigate and eradicate my anger. Fortunately, Jesus never leaves us on our own. In teaching us to say “Our Father,” Jesus has presented himself as my brother and brother to us all. As a first step in changing our attitude, let’s ask Jesus how he views that other person: what drives and inspires them, what has shaped their lives, what are their strengths. Next, let’s ask Jesus to help us look at our own attitudes and discover the source of our anger or dismissive attitude. Then let’s pray for that other person and for the healing of our own hearts. If there is a need to be reconciled with an acquaintance, ask Jesus to be with you in the one on one work that lies ahead. If the person you’re praying for is a public figure, ask Jesus to direct your attention to the area of your disagreement and to help you debate the issues rather than demean the person.
In today’s gospel, Jesus encourages us to pray to the Father with confidence: “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened” (Mt.7:7-8). My third grade class suffered something of a crisis in faith when, despite all our prayers, a fierce and unexpected thunderstorm canceled our class trip to the amusement park. In school and unhappy, we asked Sr. Jane if we had not prayed enough or if God was angry with all of us or at least some of us. Sister reassured us that God hears and answers all prayers and opens doors, but, sometimes when we go through an open door, we might see something different from what we expected. We were then treated to a rollicking science lesson and science fiction story with Sister Jane acting out what it would have been like if we were on a roller coaster during an active thunderstorm. Our adult prayers generally focus on more serious matters, but God’s answer can still surprise us. In the long view, I often see how God was guiding me to do something I would never have had the confidence to attempt. And, in the very long view, difficult experiences have helped me become more compassionate and less judgmental. Spend some prayer time today recalling how God has guided you through some memorable life moments and ask God to bless your day and the day of all you will meet. If you’re unlikely to meet someone today, say a prayer for the first person who passes by your window.
Today’s readings and responsorial psalm are all about truth telling. We are called to acknowledge the truth about ourselves, the truth of who Jesus is and what his words mean, and the truth of our relationship with Jesus and one another. In Psalm 51:19 we pray, “My sacrifice, O God, is a contrite spirit; a heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.” The humbled and contrite heart acknowledges that God created us out of love, declared that we are good and remains with us to guide us through confusion, to strengthen us in our weakness and, through Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit, draws us ever closer to God and to one another. Jesus worked miracles to bolster people’s faith in him, but ultimately we must accept him and his teachings. Jesus hints at the greatest sign, his rising from the tomb, emerging from death as Jonah emerged from the whale’s belly, but he clearly claims his roles as king and prophet, greater than King Solomon, who ruled with justice and wisdom, and greater than the reluctant prophet Jonah whose preaching converted the city of Nineveh. At your baptism, you were called to share in the mission of Christ as king and prophet, service roles and titles we don’t easily ascribe to ourselves. The rule of king requires us to exercise our authority wisely, including the influence we have over friends and family, our participation in the community and our use of our talents and possessions. for the good wisely. As prophets, we are expected to give witness to God’s love by our words and actions. Spend some time today thinking about your share in Christ’s kingly and prophetic mission. When you think of prophetic figures, who comes to mind? Pray for those people and to ask God to continue to nourish your faith and direct your service.
In today’s gospel, Jesus reassures his followers that their prayers don’t need to be elaborate, long or eloquent because God already knows their needs. Jesus then teaches his disciples the Our Father, which contains the components of all prayer: praise and thanksgiving, acknowledgement of failings and our willingness to forgive others, and a request for help in our daily lives. As part of their preparation for the Easter sacraments adults coming into the church are presented with the Our Father as the model of prayer and our family heritage. Who taught you to pray? To say the Our Father? Say a prayer for all those who have shared their faith with you. Say the Our Father or read it slowly, phrase by phrase. Choose one word or phrase that caught your attention. What does that passage mean for you today, at this point in your life? You might find it helpful to write down your thoughts and repeat this meditation a few times during Lent. Notice if there is any change in the words and phrases that catch your attention or in your response to the phrases or the prayer as a whole. Know that whether or not your response changes, the Holy Spirit directs your prayer.
In the decade following the Second Vatican Council, the walls of Catholic schools were filled with cheery banners with pop art and breezy sayings like “God didn’t make junk.” While that phrase might have consoled the child who was the last picked for a sports team, it underestimates God’s dream for each of us. Consider God’s command to Moses: “Speak to the whole assembly of the children of Israel and tell them: Be holy, for I, the LORD, your God, am holy” (Lv. 19:1-2). Fortunately Jesus tells us that ideal is easier to reach than it might seem: “whatever you did for one of the least of my people, you did for me” (Mt 25:31-46). When Jesus speaks of the least, he’s not commenting on personalities; instead, he is teaching us that we need to show kindness to people who are not in a position to reciprocate. Of course, each of us probably has some people we find hard to relate to or even approach. Sometimes the memory of one hurtful comment or act keeps us from reaching out to a person. Other times someone may be too different or too similar to us. At times, safety may require us to keep a distance. Pray for these people; if possible, offer a smile, a simple word. Whatever we do…God knows and will be with us in our efforts.
As a child I was fascinated by the drama of today’s gospel. After his baptism when Jesus was affirmed as the beloved son of the Father, the Spirit drives him into the desert to endure temptation and the devil complies. What my childish imagination missed is the preparation for ministry that the first forty days of prayer and fasting provided Jesus. When Satan confronted Jesus, Jesus was tired and hungry but strengthened by his time of prayer and solidarity with his Father. Unlike the disciples who before the resurrection were often confused about Jesus’ identity, the devil recognizes Jesus as true God and true man. The first two temptations invite Jesus to use his power on his own behalf: first, to turn stones into bread and satisfy his hunger; second, to demonstrate his divinity by throwing himself off the parapet. However, Jesus did not perform signs and wonders on his own behalf; miracles relieved suffering and inspired belief in Jesus’ teachings. The last of the desert temptations, the choice of worshiping God or the devil, is not so different from the temptations we face in choosing who and what we value and whether or not we will follow Jesus. spend some time today looking around and discovering what God’s been up to look at the window toward your room or your house look at photographs and souvenirs the food in your refrigerator give thanks for the blessings received and ask for what you need. A friend of mine used to say that the Christian life is about knowing who we are and whose we are. As you admire God’s handiwork think about how you fit into it. Is God asking you to do something new or just to renew your efforts?
In today’s gospel Jesus invites Levi, a tax collector, to follow him. Levi immediately leaves his customs post to joins Jesus and his followers. Later that day, Levi hosts a banquet for Jesus. The food is abundant; the guests are many, including a crowd of tax collectors pharisees scribes and Jesus disciples. In many ways, Levi’s festive celebration foreshadows our Eucharistic feast which nourishes each of us individually and makes us all one in Christ. In parishes throughout the world, adults are preparing to receive baptism, confirmation and communion at the Easter vigil. Reflect on how the church with its scripture, sacraments, tradition and community have shaped your life and pray for those preparing to come into full communion in our church. If you know someone preparing to receive the Easter sacraments, let them know that they have your prayers and support. If you are preparing for the Easter sacraments, know that you are in the prayers of this online community and that we are eager to have you join us in our Eucharistic feast.
Today’s readings emphasize the peace, justice and abiding joy that come from being in covenanted relationship with our God. After providing clothing, shelter, food and other services to those in need and caring for the people who are close to you, Isaiah prophesies: “Then your light shall break forth like the dawn and your wounds shall quickly be healed Your vindication shall go before you, and the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard” (Is 58:8). We have all had that experience of helping someone and finding ourselves blessed in the interaction. As you go about your day, think of one or two people known for their acts of service. These might be people who have helped you or people whose compassion you have personally witnessed or public figures known for their acts of service. Offer prayers of thanksgiving for these people and pray that God continues to bless them and their work.
However early I start thinking about my Lenten practices, Ash Wednesday’s arrival always finds me feeling underprepared. Today’s gospel passage shifted my focus from my planning to God’s invitation. Jesus teaches: “If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” (Lk. 9:22-25). In Lent we often practice self-denial by giving up some favorite food or leisure activity and donating the saved time and money to one or more causes or persons. But presenting to God the open heart that God desires– the heart that is ever opening to God and the people and world that God created– may also require giving up attitudes that prevent our full-hearted response. Does fear of not knowing what to say keep you from visiting the sick or comforting someone who is in mourning? Does the slow pace of social change discourage your individual efforts? Ask the Holy Spirit to help you identify and overcome whatever keeps you from fully embracing the message and mission of Jesus and living the fullness of life that God desires for you.
God’s call is clear and urgent “Even now, says the Lord, return to me with your whole heart…Rend your hearts, not your garments, and return to the Lord, your God” (Jl. 2:12-13). Even now! In the middle of the week, in the midst of your many tasks, set aside some time today so you and God can look into your opened heart. Name your top concerns and hopes; then listen to God’s perspective on your concerns and God’s hopes for you. Are you comforted? Challenged? Surprised? Talk it over with Jesus, who has called us friends and has, in his great love, promised to share our burdens.
Lent is always a love story: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life” (Jn. 3:16). In response to God’s gift, we change our attitudes and actions to become more open to experiencing and spreading God’s love. Since 2025 has been designated a Jubilee Year of Hope, our reflections will be both personal and expansive., occasionally referencing the jubilee year as well as world events. As Pope Francis noted, “The signs of the times, which include the yearning of human hearts in need of God’s saving presence, ought to become signs of hope” (Declaration of the Year of Hope). Let us pray for and with one another.
Reflections By Fran McManus, RSM
Fran McManus, RSM, is a member of the Institute of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas. She teaches literature and poetry writing in the Adult Education Program of St. Francis of Assisi Church.
Her poems have appeared in Re: A Journal of Ideas https://reideasjournal.com/sisterfranpoems and in The New York Writers Coalition Journal https://nywriterscoalition.org/journal/11357/12.
